DM MikeK Saturday February 11th, 2017 12:33:31 PM
After some last-minute preparations and good-byes, the Silver Shields march up Lakeview Passage, and around Dagger Point to arrive at the Giggling Ghost. At this time of evening, the tavern is bustling with locals and out-of-towners stopping by the famous locale for a bite to eat, a game of darts, or maybe just people watching.
Happy is most definitely watching. For no sooner does the group enter, than the normally jovial innkeeper is at their side and hustling them to a side room. The adventurers enter, followed by Happy. Shutting the door behind everyone is Grokk Greatbelly, owner of the Fatted Calf and one of the group’s other patrons. Sitting a table is the third, Brassy McGurk, owner of the Brassy Toad. Also at the table is a gnome, plainly dressed, and a half-elf in leather armor.
Sugar recognizes the half-elf as one of the local card players whom he performed for a couple nights ago.
No one recognizes the gnome, a fact very quickly addressed by Happy. “Let’s get down to it,” he says without preamble. “This is Bernglibbet Boykins, owner and cobbler for Bern’s Boots on Crook Street. Bern, tell them what you told us.”
The gnome looks at you, and sighs. Apparently, he’s told his story a few times now, because it rolls off his tongue without emotion. Paraphrased, it goes like this -
On the night of Mask Day, there was a local celebration, as per tradition. The acolytes from the Hands of Love temple on Crook Square gave away bread and ale to anybody who wished. Well, pretty much everyone did wish, and helped themselves to the freebies. Bern remembers nothing else of that night, but woke midday the next day to find the acolytes still giving away bread, but not at the Temple. Crook Square was blocked, for some reason. The bread and ale were distributed on Crook Street in front of the Charnum’s Baked Goods. Again, Bern helped himself, and again remembers nothing more until the middle of last night, when he awoke to a commotion outside his shop. Looking out, he saw a large number of armed men with purple armbands hauling several of the merchant’s carts toward the intersection of Crook Street and Dagger Point. Suspicious, Bern managed to sneak into the street shadows and slip into the back of the one carts, only to find it empty. A minute later, the cart was overturned in the street. Bern luckily landed in shadows near a wall, and quickly crawled out to Dagger Point. From there, he saw several carts had been overturned, blocking access to Crook Street, and a lot of armed men were manning the makeshift barricade. Bern ran to the guard post in the Northwest Tower, but after the Sergeant of the Guard asked a couple questions, he said it sounded like nothing more than a continuation of the party, and told Bern to go home.
“And then I came here,” Bern finishes.
Happy picks up the tale. “So, this morning, I take Bern, and we march up to that checkpoint they got set up. And I say I need to pick up my weekly supplies at Charnum’s, and they say I can’t. That the place is quarantined for an Aisildurian Flu outbreak, and no one can go in. Nothing I said, and I said a lot, would get them to let us through.
The innkeeper looks the Shields over.
“I don’t like it. Something is going on there,” he worries, while the other tavern keepers nod in agreement. “We need you to find out what it is, and stop it.”
Sugar HP:36/36 AC:15/12 CMB:+4(+5) CMD:15 d20+11=24 ; d20+11=13 ; d20+11=27 ; Saturday February 11th, 2017 1:50:02 PM
Hello gentlemen, this is the first time I am meeting most of you. Liam "Sugar" Deckard, at your service. A few questions, if I may, for Master Boykins—but anyone may answer as you see fit; [b]Why do you think that you were out, or unconscious for such a length of time? Why would the acolytes still be giving away bread a day past Mask Day? What can you tell us about Charnum's Baked Goods and its owner? What does anyone know about purple armbands and their association with men-at-arms?
Know Local — 24 (Charnum's Bakery, Bern's Boots, purple armbands, anything relevant) Diplomacy — 13 Sense Motive for Boykins — 27
Sid (Andrew) HP:31/31; AC: 16/14/12; CMB: 2; CMD: 16) d20+9=24 ; d20+11=27 ; d20+11=25 ; Saturday February 11th, 2017 4:22:47 PM
Sid looks closely at Bernglibbet Boykins unobtrusively from the group, trying to see if he can notice anything about it that might be useful he also racks his mind for anything about The Bakery, The Cobbler, purple armbands, or the Hand's of Love.
======================
Perception: 24 Stealth: 25 Knowledge(local): 27
Bartomus [(Rod) HP: 23/23 AC: 13 (11+2)] d20+3=13 ; Saturday February 11th, 2017 8:26:52 PM
Bartomus listend and tried to get a sense of the location of the barricades. It sounded familiar, but with all of the book and map work of the last two days, he wasn't exactly certain of the location.
"So, is it information you all are wanting, or us to clear a path back to this Charnum's shop?" Bartomus asked. It was odd, something was nagging at the back of his mind, part of a dream about animals. Bartomus shook his head and tried clearing the feeling from his mind.
Micah (John) HP: 31/31 nonlethal AC: 21/10/21 CMD:15 d20+9=10 ; d20+13=32 ; Saturday February 11th, 2017 10:11:37 PM
Micah listens intently. Although this business owners seems known by their patrons, he pays close attention to him to discern any potential deception. The sudden lapses in consciousness imply foul play provided the gnome is not misrepresented the amount of ale imbibed.
He nods along with Liam's questions both in agreement at them being asked and interest in the answers.
He tries to recall what he knows about the Aisildurian Flu, but is inclined to think that it might not be a legitimate concern, but rather an excuse to cover for something else.
Aloud he comments, "Barricaded carts seem overdoing it for a quarantine. This definitely warrants a further look." He turns to the two paladins to suggest, "Given your immunity from disease and your vows to aid those in need, there is no need to apply the quarantine to the two of you. Your appearance might be a means of testing their resolve to keep others out. Then turning to Sugar he adds with a grin, "I tend to doubt the quarantine is legitimate, but how do you feel about potential exposure to the flu? Paladins at the gate might be an effective diversion..."
==== Sense Motive on Boykins 32 Heal 10
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 32/32 hp AC: 16/13/12 CMB: +8 CMD: 17 d20+10=19 ; Sunday February 12th, 2017 3:18:31 PM
The mention of purple armbands sends Stohps memory back to the fight with Shredds. At the time his followers wore armbands so they could know who was on their side and who wasn't. Throw in a possible connection with the Hands of Love and it sounds like trouble.
"There's no time to waste then. If we're to catch them in the act of whatever they're doing we need to head out now or they might be gone before we arrive."
She tries to remember everything she can about the area mentioned (knowledge: local 19)
K (Carl) HP: 25/25 AC:16/13/13 CMD:18 Sunday February 12th, 2017 4:35:48 PM
K's head hits the table. "Brother, not The Hand again." He picks his head up. "Ok, Zander and I are immune. If they don't let a couple paladins in to help, they're probably up to no good."
Internally, K's troubled. He has little faith in his ability to cut through more intrigue.
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:27/27 CMD:14] Monday February 13th, 2017 9:41:26 AM
Dorbin thinks and then responds, "So what is our plan if they don't let a couple paladins in? And should the rest of us try and sneak in at the same time?"
Bartomus [(Rod) HP: 23/23 AC: 13 (11+2)] Monday February 13th, 2017 9:45:26 AM "Was thinking the same thing Dorbin. If so, and they don't let in the heavy hitters, we may find ourselves really needing to rely on our wits." Bartomus added to Dorbin's idea.
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:27/27 CMD:14] Monday February 13th, 2017 10:02:14 AM
Dorbin paces a little with Emily and mumbles out loud, "If we sit back and let the Paladins in, either they let them in or they don't. If they do, we have two inside and the rest outside. If they don't, we'll all be outside."
"But if the rest of us try and sneak in, we either make it or we don't. If we make it, we're in, but then where are the paladins? We could all be in, all be out, or some on the inside and some on the outside."
He stops pacing and says, "I suggest we wait while the paladins attempt entry. If they are refused, we can all work together to try and find another way in. If they are allowed entrance, they can try and find a way to help the rest of us join them on the inside."
Sugar HP:36/36 AC:15/12 CMB:+4(+5) CMD:15 Monday February 13th, 2017 1:22:58 PM
Sugar waits patiently for the patrons to answer but gives Micah a wink and nods toward Dorbin after dropping the eaves.
Zanderallen (Zachary H) HP: 43/43 AC: 23 T: 11 FF: 22 CMD: 18 Party Treasury d20+10=19 ; Monday February 13th, 2017 2:03:08 PM
Listening intently to Boykin's story Zander tries to perceive any deception or evasiveness in his answers. He is inclined to believe him based on the rest of his tale. But gnomes do have a reputation...
"I agree that K and I should seek them out to help. If any others try to sneak in they should have an escape route planned. It might be best if most everyone comes with us to the barricade since we are a group. We'll only ask for myself and K to go in but explain that everyone be close in case they can help in some way. If they refuse entry to us then we can be certain they are up to no good and can discuss options then.", turning back to their patrons he asks, "To what extent are they being a problem? How large a disruption do you deem it? That information will be helpful in deciding what is necessary to deal with them." ------ Sense Motive 19
DM MikeK Monday February 13th, 2017 7:25:17 PM
Various questions are peppered at Bern and the patrons. Plans are discussed, memories reviewed, and motives gently probed.
No one detects any deception in Bernglibbet Boykins. Both he and his story appear to be just what he says.
Crook Street is, in fact, right around the corner from the Giggling Ghost. Out the front door, turn left, walk past the neighboring building and there you are. This may account for Happy’s acute interest in the matter.
Of Bern’s Boots, Sid remembers seeing a sign for the place, but that’s about it. Sid and Sugar recall Charnum’s Bakery, as it does supply the local taverns. It is located at the end of Crook Street, across an alley from the Hands of Love Temple. The owner, Charnum, is a matronly dwarf. But again, that’s about it. Both places stick in the memory, if at all, as typical shops on the Fence. Bern recalls seeing Charnum on Mask Day, but not afterwards. “Didn’t seem to be anything the matter then,” he adds.
Sugar asks some more questions of the gnome. ” Why do you think that you were out, or unconscious for such a length of time? Bern apparently hadn’t thought of that question before. The gnome’s gaze goes to the ceiling, as he tries to remember as best as he’s able. “I couldn’t prove it,” he says finally, “But I think I was slipped something. Some kind a drug, I bet.”
Why would the acolytes still be giving away bread a day past Mask Day? To this Bern can only shrug with some embarrassment. “Its free food. I didn’t ask, and they didn’t say.”
Nobody knows anything about the significance of the purple armbands.
Micah has never heard of the Aisildurian Flu, but he can’t be certain that it doesn’t exist.
The only other recent item of interest is that note K’s father sent.
In the meantime, an initial plan is developed. Everyone knows paladins are immune to disease, so they should be able to walk right through, right?
Zanderallen has some final questions for Happy and the group’s patrons. “How’s it a problem?!” Happy exclaims. “I don’t buy that quarantine for a Wardd’s Nickel! There’s hooligans there, taking over the street! A couple days ago Crook Square, and now the whole street. “ He waves his hands at a wall. “They’re right there! And my place is next! No, no, no, no, no. I, er, we, expect you to get rid of that barricade, and find out what’s happened to the good folk on Crook Street, and take care of whatever or whoever is behind all this.”
Sid (Andrew) HP:31/31; AC: 16/14/12; CMB: 2; CMD: 16) d20+5=22 ; d20+11=28 ; Monday February 13th, 2017 7:53:09 PM
"I agree that we should go as a group. On the whole we're not a sneaky enough group to effectively split up, and that would leave the paladins cut off. I think the sneakiest we could be is to come bearing aid to 'help the paladins bring comfort to the sick and needy,' and that's about it. If there is something legit going on, they would definitely need help at this point. It'll be hard to push us away, and when they try we'll have just cause to investigate, or better cause since we're at the behest of the community." Sid nods to himself, thinking it over again. "Yeah all or none either way."
================
Knowledge(Engineering): 22 Knowledge(Dungeoneering): 28 ((Both of these are to think of quick non-fire using ways to break up barricades.))
Bartomus [(Rod) HP: 23/23 AC: 13 (11+2)] Monday February 13th, 2017 9:06:19 PM "Well, then let's get this charity endeavor moving," Bartomus said as he got up, used his glave as a walking stick, and headed towards the door of the meeting room that they had been ushered into.
K (Carl) HP: 25/25 AC:16/13/13 CMD:18 Monday February 13th, 2017 9:08:09 PM
"Wait a minute..." K takes out the letter his dad wrote. "Says here Father Six and some others from The Hand were taken by Undercrats on Mask Day. Father Six was a voice of reason in The Hand. If he's gone, it may have been taken over by more radical elements." He frowns. "This could be bad."
"Ok, let's go do our paladin doing good thing, but if it hits the fan, we go full 'get these dudes out of here' mode. We're trusted by these people, they paid for us, we need to serve them, even if it's not diplomatic."
"Plus, if I'm right, we need to send these kids a message."
K stands. He's ready to go.
Sid (Andrew) HP:31/31; AC: 16/14/12; CMB: 2; CMD: 16) Tuesday February 14th, 2017 12:07:50 AM
Now that action is being taken, Sid stands as well, ready to follow them out. When they actually leave he will grasp Brassy's hand, shake it, and say, "Thank you."
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:27/27 CMD:14] Tuesday February 14th, 2017 9:11:43 AM
Dorbin quickly scampers after Bart towards the door as they prepare to leave. He whispers to Emily, "Now you stay out of trouble!"
Micah (John) HP: 31/31 nonlethal AC: 21/10/21 CMD:15 Tuesday February 14th, 2017 10:16:49 AM
Micah stands with K as he prepares to leave. He then suggests, "As the rest of us provide a unified front our stealthier members might provide a useful reserve or even an alternative entry should we be obstructed. Do either of you arcane casters have message prepared? If so, we might wish to have Sugar and Sid able to communicate remotely to the rest of us."
Bartomus [(Rod) HP: 23/23 AC: 13 (11+2)] Tuesday February 14th, 2017 10:18:32 AM
Bartomus smiled at the way Dorbin spoke to Emily. He studied the cat, and realized that in his dreams during the evening between the two days of training, he had dreamed about a cat. A bit larger than Emily with long tufted ears. He smiled at the recollection and waited for the paladins to lead them onward.
Sugar HP:36/36 AC:15/12 CMB:+4(+5) CMD:15 Tuesday February 14th, 2017 10:18:37 AM
Sugar thanks the patrons and Bern for their time. I'm certain we'll find some resolution to this most inconvenient and troubling matter.
Returning to the huddle of Shields; Friends, my vote is that our esteemed Pally's execute the recon. Let the remainder of us meander about as curious bystanders. When the lads return, from their humanitarian effort, if they're allowed in, then we can lay plans from their intel. Inversely, while K and Zander are having their fun, Sid and I could open up another entrance and move stealthily about the bakery.
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 32/32 hp AC: 16/13/12 CMB: +8 CMD: 17 Tuesday February 14th, 2017 12:10:50 PM
Stohp has nothing else to say about their intended mission so keep silent. She does, however, have a point to make about some internal shield business, namely who will lead for this mission. She doesn't want to bring it up in the room with all of the business owners as, frankly, it's none of their business, so she waits until they're on the way before speaking.
"Hold up a sec guys. Before the last adventure we agreed on electing a temporary leader for each problem we've faced. I lead for the whole zombie apocalypse thing, so now it's time for someone else to lead. Is everyone good with Micah taking charge for this run? He had a lot of support when we discussed it last time."
Zanderallen (Zachary H) HP: 43/43 AC: 23 T: 11 FF: 22 CMD: 18 Party Treasury Tuesday February 14th, 2017 1:41:35 PM
Standing and leaving with the rest Zander promises the business owners they'll take care of it, "Well if Father Six has been taken then the Hands could be be slipping into radicalism again. And no one wants that. We'll try and talk sense into them and if they won't listen, we'll knock some sense into them or whatever seems best." He is glad that he and K are on the same page for their initial scouting.
Once outside he backs Stohp's plan, "Micah is you are fully recovered I fully support you leading. You often were able to find a good middle ground in our previous dealings with the Hands. If you are not up to it then I would nominate myself or K to lead in dealing with the Hands."
Sid (Andrew) HP:31/31; AC: 16/14/12; CMB: 2; CMD: 16) Tuesday February 14th, 2017 6:04:02 PM
"Hey, I'm all for Micah leading us. Someone just needs to decide on something and we do it."
DM MikeK Tuesday February 14th, 2017 6:41:46 PM
The Shields take their leave, and head outside.
However, once on the street in front of the Giggling Ghost, multiple - and somewhat different -plans are proposed.
Plan A seems to be everyone approach the barricade, and the paladins do the talking while the rest of the group provides obvious backup.
Plan B seems to be the paladins approach, while everyone else keeps in the general area, but attempt to appear as passer by, or at not with the paladins.
Plan C seems to be to split up, with the paladins approaching, some standing by, and others sneakily looking for other ways into Crook Street.
Also, there is the matter of mission leader, with Micah grabbing some late votes, but others (including Micah) haven't said anything yet.
Bartomus [(Rod) HP: 23/23 AC: 13 (11+2)] Wednesday February 15th, 2017 1:04:33 AM "Micah, lead on, but do so quickly, at this rate we will have more plans than Shields," Bartomus added with a chuckle.
Sid (Andrew) HP:31/31; AC: 16/14/12; CMB: 2; CMD: 16) Wednesday February 15th, 2017 1:40:30 AM
Sid smirks, "We do seem to be good at making plans."
K (Carl) HP: 25/25 AC:16/13/13 CMD:18 Wednesday February 15th, 2017 10:06:28 AM
K looks around. "Yea, Micah's fine, but we need to get moving. Zander and I know what we're doing. The rest of you figure it out quickly. A not-quite-perfect plan is a lot better than no plan at all." He motions to Zander & starts heading out.
Eyes forward, he mutters to his fellow paladin, "sometimes you've just gotta get your butt in gear, you know?"
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:27/27 CMD:14] Wednesday February 15th, 2017 11:16:01 AM
Dobin says, "Lead on Micah. I like plan B."
Sugar HP:36/36 AC:16/12 CMB:+4(+5) CMD:15 d20+5=22 ; d20+8=19 ; d20+10=23 ; Wednesday February 15th, 2017 11:31:05 AM Micah, you're the leader. Sugar pats the beige-clad Cleric on the shoulder and begins the short walk to Crook Street. He stops short of the barricade to have a look at the back of the building; looking for entrances such as street-level windows, second story windows, doors and windows left wide open, scaffolding, or anything that might prove to be an advantage for an indirect route into the bakery or its building (if its part of a larger building sharing space). Perception—22
Sugar isn't trying to draw attention to himself, but should he need to make an effort to blend into the crowd. Disguise—19, Bluff—23
Micah (John) HP: 31/31 nonlethal AC: 21/10/21 CMD:15 Wednesday February 15th, 2017 12:24:12 PM
Rising to the expectations of the collective Shields, but after silently praying the single word courage, Micah calmly and confidently takes on the responsibility of leading this group in this endeavor,
After considering the various suggestions and combining them as he judges best, he gives the following instructions. "The three of us," he says while gesturing to himself and the two paladins, "will approach the barricade directly. Dorbin, Stohp, and Bartomus, stay close in the crowd, but without revealing yourselves unless things heat up. Sid and Sugar, together approach alternately and stealthily, attempting to learn anything they may be trying to hide from us, but try not to get out of visual with us or at least line of effect. Sugar, let me or another Shield know with your message spell before you make any bold moves or go out of sight. Please cast it now so that it is active before we get there."
With this latter instruction, Micah fondly recalls a similar use of that spell by a former Shield, picturing the feisty Martisan in his mind.
To Stoph he asks with a smile, "And who can we look for in the crowd this time?" referring to the taur's hat of disguise.
With their course hopefully clarified, he steps with the others as they head toward the barricade, placing himself between the two paladins.
Zanderallen (Zachary H) HP: 43/43 AC: 23 T: 11 FF: 22 CMD: 18 Party Treasury d20+10=12 ; d20+3=22 ; Wednesday February 15th, 2017 12:54:49 PM 'This is the quickest we've ever planned anything, Seems we might finally be coming together as a group.', Zander thinks to himself as he head towards the barricade with K and Micah. He makes sure his holy symbol is clearly visible. As they turn down the barricaded street he tries to get a read off any people or crowds they encounter. Thinking over how they might hail the barricade he turns to K and Micah, "So I assume Micah will be our spokesperson when we approach, and K and I can back you up as needed. If they don't let us in we come back with a battering ram."
Sense Motive 12 Perception 22
Sid (Andrew) HP:31/31; AC: 16/14/12; CMB: 2; CMD: 16) d20+11=20 ; d20+9=22 ; d20+6=16 ; Wednesday February 15th, 2017 5:55:00 PM
"Come on hotshot," Sid says to Liam, "We've got recon." As he walks he checks his bow and his arrows and blends into the shadows somewhat, eyes wide open, he looks for an advantageous point to recon from even if he has to climb, motioning to Liam so that they are quietly on the same page and go to the same place.
===================
Perception: 22 Stealth: 20 Climb: 16
DM MikeK d20+8=19 ; Wednesday February 15th, 2017 7:42:56 PM
And a Map Sid is i, Sugar is g. Everyone else hopefully should be straightforward. -- Micah is volunteered to be mission leader, a plan is determined, and the group is off. Like any good plan, problems immediately arise.
Sid and Sugar, approaching first, immediately realize that the barricade is sitting on the intersection of Crook Street and Dagger Point, which is a couple hundred feet from the front of Charnum’s Bakery. Given the twists and turns of the street, it is impossible to see the bakery from this vantage point. Nevertheless, Sugar pulls up at a convenient corner, with Sid ambles on past to lean on a wall on the far side.
Bartomus, Stohp, and Dorbin huddle against a far wall, overlooking the barricade.
Micah, Zanderallen, and K confidently approach.
The barricade is pretty simple. Two carts have been turned onto their sides, and shoved against each side of the street, effectively blocking most of it. A 10’ gap remains in the center. In front of the carts are two men and a nasty looking half orc. Directly behind the carts are four more men, and two more men are behind them. The men wear studded leather armor, and carry longswords, and longbows. None are currently being wielded. The half orc wears a chain shirt. A falchion is at his side, and a longbow over his shoulder. All eight wear purple strips of cloth tied around their left biceps.
Behind these guards, the street is empty, save for a lone figure dressed in Hands livery, standing attentively at a bend in the road some 60-70 feet away.
Sid notices a sign for Bern’s Boots over a nearby door (AP-19).
Sugar notes that all of the buildings in the visible area are two stories tall, and all have windows on the second floor overlooking the streets. First floor windows are in short supply, as he can’t see any.
--
As Sid ambles past, and Bartomus, Stohp, Dorbin, and Sugar take their positions, the guards at the barricade scan the passers-by with bored expressions.
As Micah and the two metal encased paladins stride toward the barricade, the guards become a lot less bored. No one draws any weapons, but the half-orc paces forward, with two comrades flanking him, to meet Micah a few feet from the gate.
“Street’s closed,” he growls. “Move along.”
Micah (John) HP: 31/31 nonlethal AC: 21/10/21 CMD:15 d20+12=25 ; Wednesday February 15th, 2017 8:26:38 PM three, seven, nine, counts Micah to himself as they approach.
"And a good day to you, too, sir," he replies casually to give his holy colleagues time to scan the hearts of these men and others who might not be immediately visible. "I am Brother Micah. We heard there was a problem here and came as soon as we could. How may my friends and I be of assistance?"
===== diplomacy 25.
Bartomus [(Rod) HP: 23/23 AC: 13 (11+2)] d20+6=8 ; d20+3=16 ; Wednesday February 15th, 2017 10:24:05 PM "Well, now why would there be a barricade there? It's not an alley, and it would obviousl alienate some of the businesses." Bartomus asked as he walked about Dorbin taking up a position on Strohp's right. "I don't think I have seen any of those folks manning the barricade before either. Do they look familiar to either of you?"
== Perception 8 Know. Float 16 move to where his top left is at AD5
Sid (Andrew) HP:31/31; AC: 16/14/12; CMB: 2; CMD: 16) d20+7=18 ; d8=2 ; Thursday February 16th, 2017 3:40:25 AM
Keeping his watch, Sid readies an arrow. He looks bored, like he is waiting for someone, possibly a date to go into the GG with, to hide his movements and waits to target the first being to attack one of his people.
========================
To Hit: 18 ((With Lhysandril, longbow. I can hit S and 1 - 8 if they attack. Again, this is only a response to an attack, and not a preventative measure)) Damage: 2
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:27/27 CMD:14] Thursday February 16th, 2017 8:19:19 AM
Dorbin whispers, "That's a lot of guards." He looks closely at the purple arm bands and wonders if he knows where he might find something that looks like those. He says, "Maybe if we just get some arm bands they'll let us walk right in. Well, not the paladins that just walked up to them, anyway."
K (Carl) HP: 25/25 AC:16/13/13 CMD:18 Thursday February 16th, 2017 10:05:06 AM "Bullies," K thinks to himself. "These ones aren't armed with saps, either. May have an honest to goodness fight on our hands."
He says nothing & makes no hostile movements, but his facial expression belies a complete lack of patience for these shenanigans. "Micah," he thinks to himself, "if we're to fight these guys, I only ask that we not draw out the diplomacy too long."
Carl subbing for Stohp Thursday February 16th, 2017 11:39:18 AM
Stohp disguises herself as a young taur with features similar to Bart's. He points at the barricade and turns to Bart. "Dad, why's the bakery blocked off," she asks. She gives her best doe-eyed look.
Sugar HP:36/36 AC:16/12 CMB:+4(+5) CMD:15 d20+5=12 ; Thursday February 16th, 2017 12:13:59 PM
Sugar lets the thought of casting Message filter through his chaotic mind before deciding against it. Perhaps if Sid and I sneak in during the cover of night, it'll be useful, hmm..., the bard thinks to himself.
From his vantage, Sugar looks for a ladder to scale the adjacent building. He glances over at Team Holy but can't really tell what's going on. Oh, look, there's a long-tailed shadowbird flying over-head! Perception—12
Zanderallen (Zachary H) HP: 43/43 AC: 23 T: 11 FF: 22 CMD: 18 Party Treasury Thursday February 16th, 2017 2:16:55 PM
Tensing slightly in reaction to the guards' response he maintains his position flanking Micah. Catching the queues from Micah he focuses and extends his senses towards the guards, searching for darkness lurking in their hearts. His gaze turns to a stern glare as his view sweeps across the group.
--------------------- Detect Evil 1st Round - Presence of evil auras if strong enough to radiate
Bartomus [(Rod) HP: 23/23 AC: 13 (11+2)] Thursday February 16th, 2017 4:45:18 PM "Well, honey, I don't know why the Baker is closed, but we could go into the shop over there and ask what's up? " He smiles and winks as he spins about to look at the barriacade and the adjacent shop. "Why don't we go check that shop out."
Bartomus pointed at the door to the shop and walked up to it to see if the shop was open. As he was doing so, he waived back to his doe eyed daughter and waived her to come along with him.
DM MikeK d20+8=17 ; d10=9 ; d20+8=10 ; Thursday February 16th, 2017 6:09:24 PM
And the Map Sid is i, Sugar is g. Everyone else hopefully should be straightforward. -- Sugar looks about for a handy ladder, but doesn’t see one laying about.
Dorbin notes there are quite a few guards.
Bartomus makes a show of looking to see if the nearby storefront is open, and waves for the disguised Stohp to accompany him. Neither the half-orc nor the human guards pay him much mind, being preoccupied with Team Holy. The store, selling bolts of various cloth, is open.
The minotaur passes in front of Sid, who does his best to place arrow to bow without anyone noticing. Bart’s movements cover his actions, and none of the guards seem to mind him either. Sid readies an action, prepared to fire at…please declare a target… in case the guards attack.
Micah explains diplomatically that the trio is there to assist, while K looks grumpy, and Zanderallen attempt to discern evil hearts. Detect Evil takes 3 rounds, and must be directed at one individual. 2 rounds remain, and please specify who you are scanning
“Pleased ta meetcha, Brother Micah,” responds the half-orc with exaggerated friendliness. He grins. “You can assist me by turning around and going home.” The half orc’s biting humor elicits a low chuckle from the human guards.
The half orc’s grins fades. “The Man said ‘No one past the gate’, so no one is getting past the gate. Go away.”
Bartomus [(Rod) HP: 23/23 AC: 13 (11+2)] Thursday February 16th, 2017 8:11:57 PM
Seeing the store open, Bartomus turned his head and waived again at Strohp.
"They are open, we can look for fabric for that new apron you wanted." His tone was that a parent would quickly use without much thought to the embarassment such a public statement migh cause to their teen. "Come on, they're open."
He looked about and then said aloud to anyone listening, "Kids, they just want this and that, then act like you are killing them if you want them to hurry."
Sugar HP:36/36 AC:16/12 CMB:+4(+5) CMD:15 d20+5=20 ; Thursday February 16th, 2017 9:04:15 PM
Sugar peers around the corner in an attempt to see what's going on with the barricade guards and The Trinity. Perception—20
Since there is no building ladder on this particular structure, Sugar will double move to AB,11, ignoring his fellow Shields and the barricade. Upon reaching the other side of this building he will look for an easy, very easy way onto the roof.
OOC: Looking for a ladder attached to the building, some scaffolding, fire escape, a freight elevator, etc. Sugar has a terrible Climb skill and will not attempt to access the roof unless its easy.
Micah (John) HP: 31/31 nonlethal AC: 21/10/21 CMD:15 Thursday February 16th, 2017 9:16:02 PM "Hmmm," muses Micah aloud, "That's odd. The man told us to enter the gate and help out." Since the man Micah has in mind as he says this is Happy, he is fairly confident he knows the source of the apparent contradiction. Perhaps, however, this discrepancy will prompt the nameless half-orc to reveal something about who is giving the orders.
Additionally, he is hoping that this conversation will give the reconnaissance team a chance to learn something useful and his paladin allies more time to identify any evil auras.
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:27/27 CMD:14] Friday February 17th, 2017 9:26:57 AM
Dorbin watches everyone moving, but doesn't move himself. He tries to think of other ways past the guards and in the alley. He sends Emily out to see if she can find another way around the blockade.
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 32/32 hp AC: 16/13/12 CMB: +8 CMD: 17 Friday February 17th, 2017 1:51:10 PM "I want that one dady, I want that one!" she points enthusiastically and tugs on Bart's arm.
Bartomus [(Rod) HP: 23/23 AC: 13 (11+2)] Friday February 17th, 2017 3:33:43 PM "Alright, alright, let's go take a look at what they have." Bartomus said rather loudly, then dropped his voice to a mere whisper. "Two options, we go in and watch through any window, see if we can find out what is going on. Or, we window shop here and point out things."
Bartomus reached for the door to the shop.
Sid (Andrew) HP:31/31; AC: 16/14/12; CMB: 2; CMD: 16) Friday February 17th, 2017 5:36:29 PM
Sid slouches against the brick of the building, feeling the cool stone against the side of his face. He sighs a little bit keeping the Half-Orc('S' I think, but the Half-Orc) in his peripheral vision, just waiting for him to make a move. He turns slightly more and sees the slight tusks sticking out of the Half-Orc's mouth and the line the point to his intense eye. Sid cocks his head slightly, then shrugs, easing back, and keeps the Half-Orc in his side view. Waiting.
Zanderallen (Zachary H) HP: 43/43 AC: 23 T: 11 FF: 22 CMD: 18 Party Treasury Friday February 17th, 2017 8:02:00 PM
[OOC: Posting open to change based on rules ruling.]
Zanderallen continues concentrating on his search for evil within their hearts if he detected any auras. Either way he maintains his stance and position backing Micah, impressed with his ploy for information.
---------- Detect Evil 2nd round, number and str of auras
K (Carl) HP: 25/25 AC:16/13/13 CMD:18 Sunday February 19th, 2017 12:24:39 PM
K continues looking ahead, but inside dude's not happy. "Subterfuge? A priest of Domi and two paladins approach these bullies and we're trying to be sneaky? That's how we're playing this?" K checks himself, remembering that physical violence shouldn't be a first resort, and that it's wrong to hope it devolves to that...no matter how much fun it would be.
Micah (John) HP: 31/31 nonlethal AC: 21/10/21 CMD:15 Sunday February 19th, 2017 3:00:33 PM
Micah is outwardly calm, but must maintain a constant inner dialogue to project it. He presents an affable demeanor, but worries that he had not received a message from Sugar or an indication from Zander yet.
Sensing the tension in K, he continues to engage this cagey half-Orc in likely pointless conversation until he has a better feel for the tactical situation.
He consciously halts his hand when it, of its own volition, starts to migrate toward his hammer.
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 32/32 hp AC: 16/13/12 CMB: +8 CMD: 17 d20+8=23 ; d20+11=25 ; Sunday February 19th, 2017 5:55:48 PM
Rather then answer Bartomus Stohp rushes into the store, excitedly looking about supposedly at the items for sale but really so she can find the best spot to view the alleyway (perception 23). Being able to see into the blocked off part would be nice, but otherwise she'll just start to excitedly look at items in the front window while keeping an eye on the rest of the party (bluff 25 to watch without seeming to watch).
Sid (Andrew) HP:31/31; AC: 16/14/12; CMB: 2; CMD: 16) Sunday February 19th, 2017 6:21:31 PM Hmmm, Sid thinks, Maybe I should aim for the throat. No no, that's no good. Mouth, that's it. If he's yelling then I'll go between the tusks. He seems the type to bellow before he swing... I wonder what we're having for dinner tonight. Is it my turn to cook? Hmmm, I'll probably have to pick something up on the way. I wonder how to say, "I'll shot you in the throat" in OHW.
Bartomus [(Rod) HP: 23/23 AC: 13 (11+2)] d20+6=24 ; d20+4=8 ; Monday February 20th, 2017 1:38:01 AM
Bartomus jumped a bit back when Stohp rushed into the shop with a squeel of glee. "OH, this is going to cost me a lot of money. Kids!"
Bartomus rolled his eyes and reluctantly followed after Stohp. ==== Perception roll - 24 Perform - 8
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:27/27 CMD:14] Monday February 20th, 2017 9:03:33 AM
Dorbin watched Emily go and wonders if she will find anything. Then he realizes that if she does, he really doesn't have a way to let the rest of the group know. He paces a little, talking to himself, paying attention to the confrontation at the same time.
Sugar HP:36/36 AC:16/12 CMB:+4(+5) CMD:15 Monday February 20th, 2017 11:09:21 AM Oh, look, more shadowbirds! Bad weather must be on the way.
Zanderallen (Zachary H) HP: 43/43 AC: 23 T: 11 FF: 22 CMD: 18 Party Treasury Monday February 20th, 2017 4:52:59 PM
Zanderallen, even while concentrating, still notices the tension rising on the street. He thinks about their previous dealings with Hands and wonders how K is handling the new developments. To go through the ups and downs while rescuing Briselda, to finally reaching some order with Father Six and starting a dialogue and now to the apparent change in their behavior with the conscription of Six. Oh well, we'll get them straightened out.
Sid (Andrew) HP:31/31; AC: 16/14/12; CMB: 2; CMD: 16) Monday February 20th, 2017 8:04:04 PM Ok, I'll stop and have mutton pie and a drink. I wonder if the tinsel strength of a normal bowstring will be enough for the new rig. Ffloyd's chisel this is taking a long time.
DM PaulJ d20=16 ; Monday February 20th, 2017 11:11:38 PM
After 3 rounds of staring intently at the guards, Zanderallen detects no evil. However, he and his friends DO detect that the guards on the other side of the barricade are getting irked, especially the half orc.
"I don't know what you lot are playing at, but its time that you go home. NOW. Or we will have to convince you to go home. And that is going to hurt."
Everybody is ready for combat and suspicious so do NOT assume that the PCs have the drop on the people behind the barricade. If it goes to combat I'll roll for initiative at that point
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 32/32 hp AC: 16/13/12 CMB: +8 CMD: 17 Tuesday February 21st, 2017 9:33:30 AM "This is getting stupid..." Stohp mutters as she looks out the window, then glances about as she realizes she said that aloud. For a moment she tries to think of a way to cover, but it'd take to long to pretend to purchase anything anyway.
Pulling out her WLA badge she shows it to the shopkeeper. "We're not actually shopping, sorry, just trying to cover our friends outside while being subtle about it."
Looking back at the window she grimaces. "We're probably going to have to run right back out, looks like things are going to get violent." *Sigh*
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:27/27 CMD:14] Tuesday February 21st, 2017 9:41:40 AM
Dorbin once again counts the number of guards and says quietly, "I don't think this is a good idea. We should leave now."
He moves diagonally, trying to get the others to see his hint that he thinks they should go rather than face a full frontal assault in the middle of town.
DM PaulJ d20=15 ; Tuesday February 21st, 2017 11:16:05 AM Decisions, Decisions. Decisions are so hard
"See, your friend there knows that it is best to leave. Follow his example. NOW"
OOC: Its time to either initiate combat or withdraw. I'd prefer to do that by people posting here and not via email since you can't really coordinate your actions right now. However, your side DID win initiative so if you decide to attack just go ahead and attack.
K (Carl) HP: 25/25 AC:16/13/13 CMD:18 Tuesday February 21st, 2017 1:08:21 PM
K's trigger finger is getting itchy, but he waits for Micah to make a call...
Sugar HP:36/36 AC:16/12 CMB:+4(+5) CMD:15 Tuesday February 21st, 2017 1:48:52 PM
Sugar looks for an easy, very easy way onto the roof.
OOC: Looking for a ladder attached to the building, some scaffolding, fire escape, a freight elevator, etc. Sugar has a terrible Climb skill and will not attempt to access the roof unless its easy.
Micah (John) HP: 31/31 nonlethal AC: 21/10/21 CMD:15 d20+5=6 ; Tuesday February 21st, 2017 2:50:46 PM
Micah sighs. "All we wanted was a little information," he says resignedly. He is not too happy with their current tactical position, but he hopes any initial melee might allow them to advance their front into the barricade opening to restrict purple bandits from using their numbers.
Then drawing his hammer and raising it up to the "to the sky" guard position, he says more sternly, "I tried to ask nicely. Now I am demanding. By whose authority have you illegally blockaded this street?
If the half orc, makes an aggressive action, Micah is prepared to strike him with his hammer.
============== Readied Action to attack: Natural 1, a miss
Zanderallen (Zachary H) HP: 43/43 AC: 21 T: 11 FF: 20 CMD: 18 Party Treasury d20+7=22 ; d8+7=9 ; Tuesday February 21st, 2017 3:01:43 PM
His blood boiling at this bullying half-orc's manner, Zanderallen quickly backs up Micah. Restraining himself from being the first to strike he moves up alongside Micah, his sword out of it's scabbard and held in an aggressive on-guard position. Rather than draw his shield he readies a swing if any of them draw their weapons. "You will stand down from this illegal barricading of the streets." -------------------------- Move to AJ9 combined with drawing longsword Readied Attack if any of the guards get within reach with their weapon drawn. 22 to Hit 9 Damage
Bartomus [(Rod) HP: 23/23 AC: 13 (11+2)] d20+5=15 ; Tuesday February 21st, 2017 4:48:07 PM "ok, is there a back exit to your shop that we can use of this starts to get really ugly." Bartomus turned to the shop owner and revealed their true need.
"Stohp, we need to see what they do our there first. But, yea, if you have another way out, we need to know that like now." Bartomus said with a strong emphasis on the demand he was making.
===== Assuming Bart is at AF15 within the shop w Stohp. Earlier perception check made when walking into shop.
Intimidate roll, 15
Sid (Andrew) HP:31/31; AC: 16/14/12; CMB: 2; CMD: 16) Tuesday February 21st, 2017 5:56:37 PM
Sid waits, trying to remain calm. He imagines swiftly and cleanly bring the bow up and drawing the bowstring to his its full breath, exhaling and in that brief pause, releasing and letting it fly toward the roaring maw of the Half-Orc
====================
((Still aiming at 'S.' and ready to let loose if combat erupts.))
To Hit S: 22 Damage: 2 Sneak Attack Damage(If Applicable): 10
Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:27/27 CMD:14] Wednesday February 22nd, 2017 7:50:22 AM
When he sees the weapons readied, Dorbin casually strolls up to IA6, trying to look at if he's not with the group, but just looking to see what is going on.
K (Carl) HP: 25/25 AC:16/13/13 CMD:18 d20+9=25 ; d8+2=8 ; Wednesday February 22nd, 2017 9:40:51 AM "Finally," says K to himself. He readies his bow & nocks an arrow, taking a 5' step back to get a better field of vision.
***
Move: 5' step to AH7 Standard: Readied action - fire at 1 if (s)he makes any sudden moves. Hit AC 25 for 8 damage.
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